SD supervisors oppose pet grooming bill

Saying the existing measure goes too far, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors Tuesday opposed legislation that would force pet groomers to obtain a license, undergo training and comply with a number of work related conditions.

However, supervisors indicated they are open to more modest legislation developed as a compromise with groomers and their customers.

But as it stands now the regulations are too burdensome, they agreed on a 4-1 vote.

“This bill is overkill. It goes way too far,” said Supervisor Dianne Jacob.

Supervisor Bill Horn pushed the board to send a letter of opposition to state Sen. Juan Vargas, D-San Diego, who has introduced the bill.

“While Senate Bill 969 may accomplish some good, including increases in pet safety, the bad seemingly outweighs the good,” Horn said in a written request asking for the discussion to be placed on the board docket.

Horn argued that the measure could cost small groomers hundreds of dollars and potentially put them behind bars for noncompliance. It is a threat to small businesses and overly bureaucratic, he said.

A state legislative hearing has yet to be set.

“We need basic safety for our pets,” Vargas said in introducing the legislation last month.

The senator’s representative also appeared before supervisors to defend the bill and to gather concerns expressed. She said Vargas would like to meet with groomers.

Vargas’ measure details more than a dozen standards that would be overseen by the California Veterinary Medical Board. Those range from keeping water on hand to tracking vaccination and owner contact records, insurance, a ban on drying cages, and minimum age and training requirements for groomers. Local animal control also would have to do the enforcement.

Currently groomers only need a business license.

In his comments, Horn noted the legislation grew out of an injury to one dog, “For the sin of one we are going to penalize all,” Horn said.

The measure has sparked lively debate among those who run salons and their customers. Groomers agree some kind of oversight may be necessary but believe the bill’s conditions go too far. Some customers with horror stories counter that stringent protections are needed.

Supervisor Greg Cox cast the lone no vote. In a later statement, Cox said "I believe we should protect the health and safety of our pets and I would like to see Sen. Vargas' bill go forward. Like most bills, it will be vetted and probably modified to address concerns of business owners."